Puerto Rico

by Lopez, Jose Javier

• ISBN13: 9780791087985
• ISBN10: 0791087980
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2006-02-01
• Publisher: Facts on File

Summary

Puerto Rico is a melting pot, where past and present blend smoothly. San Juan, the invigorating capital city and gateway of the territory, boasts vibrant markets, old-world architecture, and dynamic industries. This resolutely Latin American metropolis, with its charming cobblestoned streets and awe-inspiring historic churches, defensive walls, and fortresses, is the second-oldest Spanish settlement in the Americas. Warm and diverse, Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, offers 312 miles of white sand beaches, busy ports, and coral reefs for diving and snorkeling. Rugged hills towering above rain forest canopies and colorful mountain towns dominate the island's interior, and an incredibly vivid array of tropical fauna and flora find protection in the Caribbean National Forest. With thorough research, crisp writing, and dazzling full-color photographs, Puerto Rico explores the commonwealth's vibrant geography and rich Latin and Afro-Caribbean cultures and traditions.

Author Biography

Jose Javier Lopez is Associate Professor of Geography at Minnesota State University in Mankato

Table of Contents

Introducing Puerto Rico	p. 8
Physical Geography	p. 14
Historical Geography	p. 32
People and Culture	p. 46
Political Geography	p. 56
Economic Geography	p. 71
Living in Puerto Rico Today	p. 81
Puerto Rico Looks Ahead	p. 88
Facts at a Glance	p. 92
History at a Glance	p. 96
Further Reading	p. 100
Websites	p. 101
Index	p. 102
Table of Contents provided by Ingram. All Rights Reserved.

Excerpts

Puerto Rico is a melting pot, where past and present blend smoothly. San Juan, the invigorating capital city and gateway of the territory, boasts vibrant markets, old-world architecture, and dynamic industries. This resolutely Latin American metropolis, with its charming cobblestoned streets and awe-inspiring historic churches, defensive walls, and fortresses, is the second-oldest Spanish settlement in the Americas. Warm and diverse, Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, offers 312 miles of white sand beaches, busy ports, and coral reefs for diving and snorkeling. Rugged hills towering above rain forest canopies and colorful mountain towns dominate the island's interior, and an incredibly vivid array of tropical fauna and flora find protection in the Caribbean National Forest. With thorough research, crisp writing, and dazzling full-color photographs, Puerto Rico explores the commonwealth's vibrant geography and rich Latin and Afro-Caribbean cultures and traditions.